What You Need to Know About Texas Learner's Permits in 2020

A Texas learner's permit (also called a learner license) lets you drive under supervision before you take the road test for a full license. In 2020, you must be at least 15 years old, pass a written knowledge test at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, and provide specific documents proving your identity and residency. The permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it.

The process takes one visit to a DPS office if you have all documents ready. You pay a fee (which varies slightly by location but is typically around $16 for the permit itself, plus any testing fees), pass the written exam on the spot, and leave with your permit the same day. You cannot legally drive alone — a licensed driver age 21 or older must be in the front seat with you at all times.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency to a DPS office.
  • The written knowledge test covers traffic laws and safe driving; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for two years and costs approximately $16, though fees may vary by DPS office location.
  • You must have a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat whenever you drive with a learner's permit.
  • Some DPS offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce wait times.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted. You need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or consulate ID card), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form), and two documents showing your current Texas address (such as a utility bill, lease agreement, school enrollment letter, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days).

If you are under 18, you may also need a parent or guardian present, depending on the DPS office's policy. Call ahead to confirm what your local office requires. Bring the originals of everything — do not rely on digital copies or photos of documents on your phone, as DPS staff must see and verify the physical documents.

The Written Knowledge Test: What to Expect

The test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergencies. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer at the DPS office. You must score at least 21 correct answers (70 percent) to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day; there is no waiting period between attempts in 2020.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. Study materials are free on the Texas DPS website, including the official driver handbook and practice tests. Many people study for one to two weeks before taking the test. If you fail on your first attempt, take time to review the handbook and try again — most people pass on the second try.

Fees and Payment Methods in 2020

The learner's permit fee is approximately $16 in most Texas counties, though some offices may charge slightly different amounts. You pay at the DPS office when you pass your test. Most offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards, but call your local office to confirm what payment methods they take.

The fee covers the permit itself and the knowledge test. There are no additional hidden charges. If you need to replace a lost or damaged permit, you will pay a replacement fee (typically around $11), so keep your permit in a safe place once you receive it.

How to Find Your Local DPS Office and Schedule an Appointment

Visit the Texas DPS website and use their office locator tool to find the DPS office nearest you. The site lists office hours, phone numbers, and whether that office takes appointments. In 2020, many DPS offices began offering online appointment scheduling to reduce wait times during the pandemic.

If your local office offers appointments, book one online before you go — this typically cuts your wait time from one to two hours down to 15 to 30 minutes. If appointments are not available or your office does not offer them, arrive early in the morning on a weekday, as offices are usually less crowded before noon. Bring all your documents and be prepared to wait.

Restrictions and Rules for Driving With a Learner's Permit

With a learner's permit in Texas, you can only drive when a licensed driver age 21 or older is sitting in the front seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only teenage passengers. You must obey all traffic laws and speed limits — police can stop you for any violation, just as they would a fully licensed driver.

Your permit does not expire until two years from the issue date, even if you turn 18 before then. Once you turn 18, you no longer need a supervising driver and can take the road test to get your full license. If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you will need to renew it at a DPS office.

What Happens After You Pass the Knowledge Test

You receive your learner's permit when ready after passing the test. The permit is a physical card that you must carry with you every time you drive. You will also receive information about scheduling your road test (the driving test), which you can take once you have held your learner's permit for at least 30 days and feel ready.

The road test is a separate appointment at a DPS office. You drive an examiner around a set route in your own vehicle (or a vehicle provided by the DPS office in some cases) and demonstrate your ability to handle basic driving tasks. The road test fee is separate from the permit fee and varies by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I am homeschooled?

Yes. You do not need to be enrolled in a public or private school. You must still be at least 15 years old and bring the required documents (proof of identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency) to a DPS office.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period. Review the Texas driver handbook and practice tests on the DPS website before your next attempt. Most people pass on the second try.

Do I need to take a driver education course before I get my learner's permit?

No. A driver education course is not required to get a learner's permit in Texas. However, completing one may lower your car insurance rates and is required by some insurance companies for drivers under 18.

Can I drive on the highway with a learner's permit?

Yes, you can drive on highways with a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front seat. You must follow all speed limits and traffic laws. Some learner's permit restrictions vary by state, but Texas does not restrict highway driving for permit holders.

What if I move out of Texas before my permit expires?

Your Texas learner's permit is only valid in Texas. If you move to another state, you will need to get a learner's permit from that state. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency for their requirements.